Distraction osteogenesis has recently assumed an important role in the correction of craniofacial anomalies, particularly for the treatment of potentially life-threatening, deformity-associated upper airway obstruction and respiratory dysfunction in neonates. Such deformities include Treacher Collins syndrome, Goldenhar's syndrome, Nager's syndrome, temporomandibular joint ankylosis, and Pierre Robin sequence. These conditions frequently require a tracheostomy to maintain airway patency. We report our experience with using mandibular distraction as a valid alternative to tracheostomy. Minimally invasive surgery is possible with small semiburied devices.
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